Harvestman

Description:

O. pictipes is a small harvestman in the family Nemastomatidae. Like its relatives, it has features among the most bizarre and fantastic found on any harvestman! The projection at the front of the carapace is called the hood, and is of unknown function. The surface of the body is also unique, with an intricate lattice-like appearance. The species is commonly found in coniferous forests under logs and in leaf litter.

Habitat:

Found on gravel near the house.

Notes:

This female was inclined to play dead. She would remain essentially motionless for several minutes on end, often with her legs at strange angles. Then, all of a sudden she'd spring to life and make a speedy dash for cover! If you gently put your finger on one of these, they feel much as they look: hard and coarse, almost rock-like.